A major cucumber recall linked to a Florida grower has triggered federal investigations and health alerts across 15 U.S. states after a multistate Salmonella outbreak hospitalized nine people.
At a Glance
- 26 people in 15 states have been sickened in a nationwide Salmonella outbreak
- Cucumbers from Florida-based Bedner Growers, Inc. are the confirmed source
- Products were distributed to restaurants, retailers, and cruise ships
- FDA and CDC are urging consumers to discard affected cucumbers immediately
- This is the second Salmonella outbreak tied to the same grower in under a year
Infected Cucumbers Spread Fast
A nationwide recall has been issued after cucumbers shipped by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., originating from Bedner Growers in Florida, were linked to a fast-spreading Salmonella outbreak. So far, 26 infections have been reported in 15 states, with nine individuals requiring hospitalization.
The cucumbers were sold between April 29 and May 19 at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market locations and shipped widely to grocery chains, restaurants, and cruise lines. States affected include California, Ohio, Michigan, New York, and Florida, among others. Federal authorities say symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain can occur 12 to 72 hours after exposure.
Watch a report: FDA, CDC Investigate Multistate Salmonella Cucumber Outbreak.
Repeat Offender?
This marks the second serious foodborne outbreak involving Bedner Growers. In 2024, an investigation into the farm revealed untreated water used in irrigation had caused over 550 Salmonella cases.
The CDC and FDA are coordinating a renewed inquiry. Officials have advised against eating, selling, or serving any cucumbers from the implicated Florida supplier until the investigation concludes. “This is not just a recall—it’s a wake-up call,” said a CDC spokesperson, underscoring the risks of lax safety standards in produce farming.
Public Health Measures and Advice
Consumers are urged to throw out any cucumbers purchased during the distribution window unless verified safe. Surfaces and utensils that may have contacted the produce should be disinfected. Those experiencing symptoms after eating cucumbers should consult healthcare providers immediately.
The incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing gaps in food safety enforcement and the growing need for stricter agricultural oversight. Until federal agencies complete their traceback and testing, health officials advise extreme caution with fresh cucumber consumption—especially in vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
